Salesforce continued its transformation efforts to provide stronger financial figures after beating Q2 expectations on Wednesday and raising its profit guidance. This positive performance helped to ease concerns about rising competition from Microsoft and Oracle, both of which have established customer relationship management software brands.
Salesforce’s Strong Q2 Results
Powered by subscription and support revenue, Salesforce reported Q2 sales of $9.32 billion, an 8% increase year over year, surpassing estimates of $9.22 billion. The company saw Q2 EPS of $2.56, a 21% rise from the previous quarter and beating estimates by 9%. Operating cash flow for Q2 stood at $892 million, up 10% YoY, with free cash flow spiking to $755 million, a 20% increase.
AI Updates
Salesforce showcased the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence across its product suite, noting a significant uptick in new AI product bookings in Q2. The company secured 1,500 AI deals with major global brands during the quarter.
Guidance & Growth Trajectory
For fiscal 2025, Salesforce maintains its total sales projection at $37.7 billion-$38 billion, in line with a 9% growth estimate. Looking ahead to FY26, the company anticipates a further 9% increase in revenue to reach $41.23 billion. Salesforce has revised its EPS guidance for FY25 to $10.03-$10.11, representing a 20% growth trajectory, with an additional 10% rise expected in FY26.
Price Performance & Valuation Comparison
Despite facing heightened competition from Microsoft and Oracle, Salesforce stock has declined 4% year-to-date, underperforming compared to the broader market. At present, the stock trades at 25.9X forward earnings, slightly above the S&P 500 but below Microsoft’s valuation multiple.
Takeaway
Currently holding a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), Salesforce’s stock outlook hinges on post-Q2 earnings estimate revisions. Positive revisions are likely after the company raised profit guidance, indicating potential for a buy recommendation. Concerns over competition seem overstated given Salesforce’s promising growth prospects.